U.S. residents can submit entries for the national essay contest beginning January 1, 2009.

On your mark, get set, go. Enter to win the second annual "CIGNA Falmouth Road Race Challenge" national essay contest. As of January 1, CIGNA will begin accepting entries to win an all-expense-paid trip, valued up to $5,000, to participate in the CIGNA Falmouth Road Race August 9, 2009 in Falmouth, MA.

Sponsored by CIGNA, the contest is open to all U.S. residents 18 years of age or older, who currently have, or have overcome, a life-altering disability or illness. Entrants must be willing to share their personal triumph story, how they have inspired others to overcome adversity and why they want to race in Falmouth. Contest details and official rules are available at www.cigna.com/falmouthroadrace. The contest begins January 1, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. EST and will officially end Friday, March 6, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. EST. CIGNA will announce the winner on or about May 8, 2009.

"I was so honored to be recognized by CIGNA as the winner last year," says Kim Virden of Madison, WI. "Running the CIGNA Falmouth Road Race was an incredible experience and I was very proud to represent others like me who stay active to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even while living with a disability."

Virden was in a severe skiing accident at age 17 and suffered a traumatic brain injury that left her with a seizure disorder, vision problems and learning disabilities. Despite this, she has achieved goals many people without her challenges might find out of their reach. In the 28 years since her accident, Virden has run three marathons, carried the Olympic torch and started a local chapter of the Achilles Track Club, a non- profit worldwide organization that works to help people with disabilities compete in mainstream athletic events, in her hometown.

"Year after year there are so many incredible runners who race at Falmouth. There's no doubt that the elite athletes are impressive, but it's the runners like Kim who come out each year who are most inspiring," said Karen S. Rohan, president of CIGNA Group Insurance and CIGNA Specialty Products. "This year we look forward to hearing the stories of equally dedicated athletes who have overcome adversity and have encouraged others to do the same."

In support of its mission to help improve the health, well- being and security of individuals, CIGNA is serving as the title sponsor of the race for the fourth consecutive year. In 2008, the CIGNA Foundation also awarded a $10,000 grant to support funding for the wheelchair division of the race, which enabled a larger number of wheelchair athletes to compete in the event.

The Falmouth Road Race was founded in 1973 and has been named the "Best USA Road Race" by Runner's World magazine. It has also been featured in Life Magazine and Sports Illustrated, as well as on CBS television and ESPN. In 2005, it was named in Sports Illustrated "One of the 25 essential things to do in the summer." It was the only road race listed. Proceeds from the race benefit Falmouth school programs and youth organizations. The race annually receives more than 25,000 requests for entry forms and fills its field of 10,000 in less than a week. For more information visit www.FalmouthRoadRace.com.